When the original Chrysler 300 debuted in 2005 (make that the modern original, as the nameplate first appeared in 1955), it was a dramatic affirmation that the classic American sedan -- a big, rear-wheel-drive, V-8 -- could still be relevant, rather than just some hoary old throwback suitable only for sunbelt geezers and the livery trade. With its blocky, vaguely Bentley-esque design, the car was an immediate hit. It was a darling of today's tastemakers, the hip-hop crowd, and was frequently customized. Much was made of the fact that Snoop Dogg phoned up then-Chrysler president Dieter Zetsche ("Doctor Z") looking to get one.

Alfa Romeo will launch a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan in 2014 on the platform of the Chrysler 300. According to Autocar, the new Alfa sedan will serve as a flagship model and will help reintroduce the Italian brand to the American market.

If there was one item that was tough to overcome on the 2011 Chrysler 300 (plus a few other Chrysler cars) it was the ancient five-speed transmission. Great news -- the 2012 Chrysler 300 debuts the new eight-speed gearbox, which should be smoother and more fuel efficient. So why the delayed rollout of the new gearbox?
The narrator in the following commercial explains it like so:
“If you’re going to build a fuel efficient car, the first thing you gotta do is make a car worth building. One with character and conviction. That has all the luxury you’d expect. And pride that you can notice from down the street. Then, and only then, do you put in an eight-speed transmission that gets 31 mpg.”
Fine. We’re just glad it’s finally here. Keep a look out for our driving impressions of the Chrysler’s new gearbox.
Source: YouTube
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